Fight this summer’s triple-digit temps with a dose of aquatic venues in OKC

The heat is on, OKC! Triple-digit temperatures have returned with more frequency this summer. But that doesn’t mean you have to take it sitting down, however, unless you are getting cooled down from one of Oklahoma City’s waterparks or from its many spraygrounds scattered across the city.

If you prefer a larger theme-park setting with a variety of water rides and excursions, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is just for you! Located in west Oklahoma City off Interstate 40, Hurricane Harbor boasts more than 15 water rides for people of all ages and comfort levels. Thrill seekers may want to try out the more extreme water rides such Wahoo Racer, a four-laned water slide that will test your inner racer; Dive Bomb, a seven-story-high slide where you seemingly drop right out of the sky and then shoot down to ground level like a missile; or the Bermuda Triangle, a high-speed, three-story-high slide with lots of sharp twists and turns.

For those who prefer a more tranquil, relaxing retreat may want to check Hurricane Harbor’s more family-friendly rides such as Caribbean Cove, an activity pool with three slides, two jumping rocks and lily pads; Castaway Creek, the park’s version of a lazy river ride where you float leisurely around the park; or Splashwater Island, the ultimate family oasis, complete with a colorful play structure surrounded by a shallow pool with mini-slides, interactive water sprayers and a large tipping bucket that will guarantee to drench anyone who dares to stand beneath it!

Hurricane Harbor is open daily (except Mondays) throughout the summer, but be sure to check their website at sixflags.com/hurricaneharborokc for the latest days and times.

The Oklahoma City area is also blessed with an abundance of aquatic centers, community pools and spraygrounds where kids of all ages – even those young at heart – can enjoy the refreshing splash of cool water on a hot, summer day. Oklahoma City’s two aquatic centers, Earlywine and Will Rogers family aquatic centers, are open this summer as well as two of its community pools, Northeast Community Pool and the Foster Recreation Center Outdoor Pool, and 14 spraygrounds sprinkled throughout the city. Please check the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department website at okc.gov to learn more about these facilities and their hours of operation.

Another popular hangout spot to get soaked (that’s only if you want to!) is Scissortail Sprayground located at the new Scissortail Park in the heart of the Oklahoma City’s Downtown Business District. This unique sprayground has quickly become a hit with kids and adults alike! To see what other water adventures are available at the new downtown park, check out scissortailpark.org.